Yesterday, after a swim at Savannah Beach in Lewes, Delaware, I greeted a woman with a simple “Hi, how are you?” Her expression immediately revealed her unease with the election results. I shared my belief in a higher purpose guiding our lives, but she replied sharply, mentioning a fear of being raped—words seemed out of place for her. It reminded me of another woman I met earlier who lamented, “They won with anger… Maybe I just need to get angry.”
What a journey we’re on! During smooth times, faith feels less essential. Yet, when life strays from our expectations, that’s when faith truly matters.
We often depend on the government for safety and protection, neglecting our own roles and each other. We expect leaders to ensure our safety, connection, and community. But we must turn to each other to build these bonds.
Listening to the “We Can Do Hard Things” podcast this morning, I gained a sobering perspective: Trump reflects America’s historical roots—straight, white men in power. It’s a reality I can’t control. It’s not my identity as an American, but it is part of our history. This realization empowers me to take charge of my own safety and community. The government isn’t my safety net; it’s a patriarchal structure not founded in truth, but in power. I have choices, and I’m not bound by fear, hatred, or anxiety.
People and governments will be what they are, but that doesn’t need to change who I am or how I treat people. I am a loving force for good, offering love, forgiveness, and compassion. No government can take that from me, just as Hitler couldn’t strip Viktor Frankl of his ability to choose his focus. Even in the direst circumstances, Frankl retained his choice of attention, emerging stronger and ready to help others heal. If he could rise through such trials, so can I.
Kamala Harris inspired hope and safety in me, but ultimately, I am my own safety net. I choose where to build community, who to spend time with, and how to nurture love within. I’ll feel anger, allow it, and channel it into love, trust, and faith. Faith is crucial when life diverges from our expectations. When the world seems dumb, that’s when we need faith the most.
The years 2025 to 2029 are a canvas of hope for me—an opportunity to gather courage, share love, and listen for opportunities. I’ll walk unafraid, respecting fear’s protective intent (to keep me safe), and bow to Love.
“Yes” to anger, “No” to violence, I thought, leaving the woman I couldn’t comfort. Anger fueled the start of my business 20 years ago, and it brought much good. We can harness anger, directing it into Love-filled actions… that’s my choice.
Wildfires are necessary for growth. No one relishes living through one, yet we all crave the new life that follows. We’re amidst a raging wildfire that may persist for a while. Faith is remembering the beauty beyond the flames and choosing love, even now.
Here’s to your greatness,
Misti Burmeister
Misti Burmeister helps leaders and their team have conversations they keep avoiding but need to have. For nearly 20 years, she has facilitated communication that results in trust, increasing engagement and productivity across generations. Make sure your communication is coming across the way you intend, visit https://www.MistiBurmeister.com